1972 BMW 520 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 520 | 323 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |